The Brikama Magistrates Court presided over by Principal Magistrate Pa Harry Jammeh, yesterday sentenced one Legaye Sowe, a cattle rustler to a five-year imprisonment with hard labour.

He was also given an additional one month jail term for being in possession of fire arms. Legaye Sowe, Mamadou Yerro Jallow and Sheriff Mareb were arraigned for stealing a cattle in Banyaka belonging to one Sang Mendy. When the charge sheet was read to them Mamadou Yerro Jallow and Sheriff Mareb pleaded not guilty but Sowe pleaded guilty.

In his judgment, the Principal Magistrate Pa Harry Jammeh said his court would be tough with cattle rustlers pointing out that, such offences are becoming rampant in society particularly in Western Region. The Brikama Court Principal Magistrate added that it is high time for the court to send a strong message as a deterant to others. He assured the public that anybody found guilty of cattle theft will be delt with accordingly.

Lawyer Mboge who appeared for Sheriff Mareb, applied bail for his client. The Police Prosecutor Sergeant Samurah in reply to Lawyer Mboge's bail application urged the court to reject the application made by the counsel on the ground that the sentencing of the first accused had sent a strong signal and if granted bail, he might abscond. Subsequently, the court ruled in favour of the police prosecution and the case was adjourned to 16 February 2009 for continuation of the trial of the remaining two.